Windows XP and Hard Disc Partitions

[!Frank!]

Hello,

I have sucessfully installed Windows XP, however, I would
like to partition my hard drive. I have Partition Magic
8.0 and I would like to have Windows XP on one partition
and make a second partition for my data, music, etc...

I would like to know if you would suggest anything that
would make the partition process easier, result in better
disc performance, what file system to use, etc.
Currently, windows XP is on an NTFS partition with 4kb
clusters.

Thanks for any advice!

 

[Norm]

You will not increase the performance of your computer by partitioning your
XP disk.

 

[Alex Nichol]

I have sucessfully installed Windows XP, however, I would
like to partition my hard drive. I have Partition Magic
8.0 and I would like to have Windows XP on one partition
and make a second partition for my data, music, etc...

I would like to know if you would suggest anything that
would make the partition process easier, result in better
disc performance, what file system to use, etc.
Currently, windows XP is on an NTFS partition with 4kb
clusters.

Just choose appropriate sizes and go for it. Try to keep the partition
with the system down in size (even if it means taking two bites at it).
When you have a second partition move your My Documents onto it: open a
window on
C:\Documents and settings\<yourname>\
to show the folder; another on the new partition and *right* drag it
across, taking *Move* here.

You can also move over Outlook Express data (its Tools - maintenance -
Store folder) and Temporary Internet Files (Control Panel - Internet
Options, click its Settings button, then 'Move Folder'

With those you can keep the size of the partition with the system well
down - leave a couple of GB headroom - and so make backup of it a lot
easier, especially knowing that if you restore the system you will not
lose data files

Use NTFS for the new partition as well - there is no benefit in such a
situation from FAT 32, and it will come out at 4K clusters, which is
optimal